Describe the role of carbon in biological systems

Answer 1

Hello Aliyah,

This is a broad questions. From a high level, carbon is a fundamental element of every organic compound as are elemental oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen (i.e. among others, I do not want to upset the organic chemists among us). Without it, biological life as we know it, would cease to exist.

From an organic chemistry standpoint, carbon is versatile. It can form single, double, and triple bonds. This bonding versatility enables carbon to be the backbone of very simple/small molecules and very complex/large molecules.

If that doesn't answer your question, please provide some clarity. Thank you.